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Ravenna Mosaic Tour Highlights with Walks in Europe - Bologna

Ravenna Mosaic Tour Highlights with Walks in Europe

Ravennaeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2.5 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; involves walking on uneven stone floors and city streets.

Overview

Discover the vibrant mosaics of Ravenna on a small group tour led by a local expert. Visit iconic UNESCO sites and enjoy free time to wander the city's historic streets.

Ravenna, Emilia-Romagna

Ravenna: Highlights and Mosaics Guided Tour with Tickets

Stroll through the old city of Ravenna on a guided tour and visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

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Adventure Photos

Ravenna: Highlights and Mosaics Guided Tour with Tickets photo 1

About This Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable small group tour of Ravenna's stunning mosaics, guided by a local expert. Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the vibrant Sant’Apollinare Nuovo and the breathtaking Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. Conclude with free time to explore the charming city center and its cultural treasures.

Discover the world-famous mosaics of Ravenna on a small group tour led by an expert local guide. Visit UNESCO World Heritage monuments and learn about their rich history. Enjoy admission tickets to explore the stunning Christian and Byzantine mosaics.

Start your journey with a visit to Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, a stunning basilica known for its colorful mosaics and impressive architecture. It was once a Palatine Chapel and later became a place of worship. The mosaic panels in the nave tell biblical stories from both the Old and New Testaments. Marvel at the craftsmanship and vibrant colors that bring these stories to life. See the Procession of the Magi, a breathtaking portrayal of the three wise men traveling to meet the infant Jesus.

Visit the Tomb of Dante, a national monument built in 1781 to honor the famous poet Dante Alighieri. Located next to the Basilica of San Francesco in central Ravenna, this site is full of history. Then, explore the underwater mosaics of the Basilica of San Francesco, revealing more of Ravenna's cultural treasures.

Continue to the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, a magnificent monument featuring early Christian art. This UNESCO World Heritage Site will enchant you with its mosaics on the walls and ceiling. The deep blue tones and intricate designs take you back to the 5th century. Admire the beautiful mosaic of the Good Shepherd, a symbol of the Christian faith.

Next, visit the Basilica of San Vitale, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. The intricate mosaics covering the walls and ceilings will captivate you. Look for the apse mosaic of Emperor Justinian and his court and the stunning mosaic of Empress Theodora. The basilica's octagonal shape and tall dome showcase the architectural skill of the time.

Conclude your journey with a delightful tasting experience at a café/bar on via Cavour. Take this chance to stroll around the city center and enjoy the charm and beauty of Ravenna.

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early to Secure Your Spot

Tickets are timed and start promptly; arriving 15 minutes early ensures smooth entry and avoids missing the tour.

Dress Respectfully

Preserve the sanctity of sacred sites by wearing modest clothing covering shoulders and knees.

Limit Your Luggage

Large bags and backpacks aren’t allowed in the monuments, so travel light to avoid complications at entry.

Bring Comfortable Walking Shoes

You’ll navigate cobblestone streets and historic interiors, so sturdy, flat footwear improves comfort for the 2.5-hour tour.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Urban pigeons commonly seen around piazzas
  • Occasional sightings of local songbirds in garden areas

History

Ravenna rose to prominence as the capital of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century, lending it a unique concentration of early Christian mosaics.

Conservation

Strict preservation efforts are in place to protect Ravenna’s delicate mosaics, including visitor limits and no-flash photography policies at key monuments.

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Adventure Hotspots in Bologna

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Necessary for navigating cobblestones and protected indoor sites without fatigue.

Light rain jacket

Useful for unpredictable spring showers and maintaining comfort outdoors.

spring specific

Sun hat or cap

Protects from intense summer sun during outdoor portions of the tour.

summer specific

Small daypack or bag

Keeps essentials handy but should be small to meet entry restrictions inside monuments.